When I talk to people at events, I see how business models have changed over the last year. Bike Share operators are constantly challenged to keep up with the rapidly changing industry and offer better rider experiences to its users.

A big opportunity for operators in 2018 is in how Bike Share Schemes are managed. It will not be enough to just supply the bikes, questions will be asked about how operators cater to the local market needs.

Intelligent operations will be at the heart of Bike Share Schemes in 2018 with operators focused on delivering the best experience to compete in the highly saturated market.

As Bike Share continues to grow across the globe, I see the following trends changing the marketplace:

Rise in App-Based & Dockless Bike Share Models

App-based Bike Share Schemes are being deployed in more markets globally. In many urban cities, you now have access to free-floating bikes that can be picked up and dropped off virtually anywhere. In 2018, we will see an increase in cities adopting these schemes in an effort to reduce the strain on existing transport infrastructure and facilitate the move from personal vehicles.

Growth of Multi-Operator Environments

Multi-operator environments are not new. We are already seeing many cities where more than one operator is running a scheme. Throughout 2018, this is likely to grow to more cities around the world and operators will be asked to deliver an optimised Bike Share Scheme to keep up with the competition. Cities will also need assuring that resources will be better managed to avoid bikes being damaged or left in unsuitable places.

Optimised Redistribution with New Technology & Incentives

The growth in Bike Share Schemes and multi-operator environments will be the driving force for better redistribution. Operators will be challenged to offer schemes that work well and is not a nuisance to cities or its citizens. Fortunately, new technology such as geo-fencing and incentives including financial rewards will drive better rebalancing processes. From the events I’ve been to, it’s clear that operators are looking to do more to improve their redistribution efforts.

Increased Bike Share Regulations

Bike Share operators have welcomed the prospect of more regulations. While some may hinder current operations, most regulations will help Bike Share Schemes to thrive. It will guide operators as to what is required and enable them to grow into new markets much easier.

Driving Intelligent Bike Share Scheme Operations

In 2018, operators will look towards better ways to manage their schemes and to grow their ridership. We see growth in technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) simplifying the management process. It enables operators to sort through vast amounts of data to gain actionable insights that has a direct impact on their operation. That kind of information makes management of Bike Share Schemes simple and efficient.

In 2018, we will continue to see disruption in all parts of Bike Share and the wider transportation industry. It will impact how operators do business. How these schemes are managed will still be the main focus for many cities and its citizens.

Users expect transportation to be as simple and efficient as the other services they consume on a day-to-day basis. That puts the pressure on operators to deliver a well-run Bike Share Scheme.

An optimised scheme enables users to rely on its services and use it regularly. It reduces unnecessary costs and complications for operators while driving profits to their business.

Fortunately, I see new technology, incentives and processes enabling operators to transform their current business model.

At Stage Intelligence, we combine citywide data with AI technology to deliver real value to Bike Share Scheme operators. Our BICO platform makes it easy for operators to simplify their operations and deliver Bike Share Schemes that works for both cities and the users.